In music, there are few things more insane than an amateur going and trying to sit down with a real player. But that’s just what John Hockenberry did earlier this week, when he went to the house of comedian, author and banjo aficionado Steve Martin. A documentary called “Give Me the Banjo” airs tonight, and is narrated by Martin. But in the comedian’s New York City apartment, talking about the banjo – as well as Martin’s long career in comedy and interest in music – was augmented by some performance and a lesson or two. Listen below to one of Martin’s original songs, “Northern Island,” which was inspired by a visit to the Ukon as well as a painting by canadian artist Lawren Harris that was hanging on the wall in the room where he played with Hockenberry.
Every day, reporters and producers at The World are hard at work bringing you human-centered news from across the globe. But we can’t do it without you. We need your support to ensure we can continue this work for another year.
Make a gift today, and you’ll help us unlock a matching gift of $67,000!